Gabion New

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Formatted: Left
Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
Formatted: Font: Bold
GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 1

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 MEANING OF GABION
A GABION (from Italian gabbione meaning "big cage"; from Italian gabbia and
Latin cavea meaning "cage") is a cage, cylinder, or box filled with rocks, concrete, or
sometimes sand and soil for use in civil engineering, road building, military applications
and landscaping.
The word Gabion was adopted by the French to mean a fortified position. This was combined
with significant research being undertaken to understand the performance characteristics of the
modern day Gabion products.
Fig. 1.1(a) Gabion Structure
1.2 HISTORY
Leonardo da Vinci designed a type of gabion called a Corbeille Leonard ("Leonard[o] basket")
for the foundations of the San Marco Castle in Milan.
The very early use of these products was by the Chinese who made wicker baskets that were
rock-filled for protection of structures against river scour. In the latter part of the16th Century Formatted: Left
the French and British developed similar structures that were soil-filled for personal protection
emplacements in military installations.

Fig. 1.2(a) Gabion with Canon in 16th Century
In the late 19th Century simple wire mesh baskets were being made that could be rock filled
and that could provide more permanent solutions to problems of erosion protection in river
works and simple earth retaining structures. Greater levels of sophistication in steel wire
coating and manufacturing techniques were employed during the latter part of the 20th Century.
1.3 GABIONS IN PRESENT WORLD
Today, the use of rock-filled Gabion (and the rock Mattress) products are well accepted
techniques in earth protection and earth retaining structures around the world. Link Gabion and
Mattress products utilize the latest manufacturing and coating technologies available to
produce a highly functional and durable product that Engineers can incorporate into their
designs with confidence.
For erosion control, caged riprap is used. For dams or in foundation construction, cylindrical
metal structures are used. In a military context, earth- or sand-filled gabions are used to protect
sappers, infantry, and artillerymen from enemy fire. Formatted: Left

Fig. 1.3(a) Bridge Abutment with Gabions
Formatted: Left
Fig. 1.3(b) Reinforced Earth with Gabions

1.4 TECHNICAL MEANING OF GABION
Gabions are rectangular baskets fabricated from a hexagonal mesh of heavily galvanized steel
wire. The baskets are filled with rock and stacked atop one another to form a gravity type wall.
Gabions depend mainly on the interlocking of the individual stones and rocks within the wire
mesh for internal stability, and their mass or weight to resist hydraulic and earth forces. Gabions
are a porous type of structure that can sometimes be vegetated. Gabions are considered to be a
hard structural solution that has minimal habitat and aesthetic value.
The modules or cages as they are known, are formed of wire mesh fabric panels, jointed to
form square, rectangular or trapezoidal shaped units. These units are part pre-assembled in the
factory to form a flat pack system. Each module has to be connected to adjacent modules to
form a monolithic structure. The types of mesh used, must be of a non-ravelling type such as
welded wire mesh or hexagonal woven wire mesh and provided with corrosion protection to
suit the required exposure conditions. The exposed faces are also systematically hand packed
to provide an appearance of a dry stone wall.
1.5 FEATURES OF GABIONS
The unique weave construction of Gabion results in a flexible structure that enables good load
distribution of imposed stresses. The weave is such that isolated breaks in the wire that may
occur from time to time will not allow unravelling of the mesh. Wire diameters have been
selected to provide optimal strength with the mesh openings, allowing a wide range of rock
sizes to be retained within the formed mesh product. The Gabion shape is easily modified to
suit a range of applications by simple cutting and folding. Mesh damage can be overcome by
simply wiring onto the damaged section some replacement mesh.
Specific features include:

Simple design with proven strength, flexibility and free drainage characteristics
ensuring there is no build-up of pore water pressures behind the structure.
Environmentally compatible with good aesthetic appeal, and the ability to blend into
Formatted: Left
the existing landscape.
Easily transported in a flat pack configuration for quick site assembly.

Suitable for use in soft ground conditions with minimal foundation treatment required.
Instant protection provided once erected.
Low cost with the use of unskilled labour possible.
Ability to use locally available, smaller sized stone with the Gabions and Mattresses
than would normally be possible.
Fig. 1.5(a) Permeability of Gabion BasketsElements

Other features include:
1.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLINESS
Gabions and Reno mattresses are environmentally friendly products. The blending of gabion
and Reno mattress structures into the environment is rapid and pleasing. The voids in the
rockfill become progressively filled with silt, promoting vegetation growth which is essential
to the preservation and maintenance of the ecological balance of the surrounding environment.
1.5.2 FLEXIBILITY
The woven mesh system has the capability of withstanding unexpected and/or localized
stresses due to ground settlements and scour by deflection while maintaining its structural Formatted: Left
integrity.

Fig. 1.5.2(a) Gabion Structure in Water Park
1.5.3 PERMEABILITY
The stone fill allows the water to seep through the structure while retaining the soil, therefore
no additional drainage is required to relieve the hydrostatic pressures.
1.5.4 COST EFFECTIVE, EASY TO BUILD
Gabions and Reno mattresses construction does not require skilled labor because they are very
easy to build. Standard construction equipment can be used. Structures can be built in stages,
if necessary, and baskets can be prefilled and launched to enable the installation under water.
Site assistance is available from any Maccaferri area office. Due to their proven success,
Maccaferri products are approved by many Federal, State and local Authorities..
Formatted: Left
Fig. 1.5.4(a) Gabion Structures along Road-side Formatted: Font: Bold


Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 2
TYPES AND
CHARACTERISTICS
OF GABIONS
2.1 TYPES OF GABIONS

The type of the gabion to be used in the field, determine the requirements of the process in the
construction field and to determine the correct type of gabion is important in terms of cost and Formatted: Left
function. Generally, Gabions are classified under two categories: Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Fig. 2.1(a) Different Types of Gabions
2.1.1 WELDED MESH GABIONS
These gabions are manufactured from a square mesh, normally of opening size 76.2mm x
76.2mm where the longitudinal wires are welded to the cross wires at their intersection points.
This type of fabric manufacture, produces a dimensionally stable mesh. This mesh, produced
in panels or rolls, is then cut into the required panel sizes to form the flat pack unit. This is
done by clipping the face, rear, side and diaphragm panels (intermediate dividing panels) to the
base panel so that they can rotate to be folded flat.
The lid may be clipped to the front or back panel or left loose dependent upon the unit size.
Units can be manufactured in any multiple of the mesh size, but are normally supplied as
standard sizes to the industry. Welded mesh gabions can be readily modified on site by cutting
the mesh back to the next transverse mesh wire.
Formatted: Left

Fig. 2.1.1(a) Welded Mesh Gabions
Welded mesh gabions are available in a number of wire diameters to suit the application or can
be manufactured in a combination of mesh-wire specifications to provide economy in supply.
The resultant gabions flexibility is dependent upon the choice of wire diameter.
2.1.2 WOVEN MESH GABIONS
These gabions are manufactured from a mesh that has a hexagonal opening which is formed
by twisting pairs of wire together with one and a half turns (sometimes referred to as triple or
double twist). This type of mesh production is continuous. To form panels, the mesh is
guillotined across the weave and the cut ends of the wire are wrapped around a heavier wire to
form a selvedge end. The unit is factory fabricated from one main panel which forms the front,
base, rear and lid of the unit with additional panels connected to the base section of the main
panel to form the diaphragm and end panels. Formatted: Left

Fig. 2.1.2(a) Woven Mesh Gabion
Dependent upon the manufacturer, the mesh orientation is normally either with the weave
horizontal or vertical on the face panel and the connection of the ends and diaphragm to the
base is via a spiral wire or pairs of twisted wires, twisted together around the base mesh. This
type of mesh is a flexible mesh as it can articulate about the twists. It is normally manufactured
from a 2.7mm wire diameter. The coatings are either galvanized only, galvanized and PVC
coated or galvanized and HDPE coated. The dimension between the twists is a nominal 80mm.
Gabion types commonly used today are gabion baskets, gabion mattresses, gabion sacks and
gabion wire mesh.
2.1.3 GABION BASKETS
Net wire mesh produced usually in box-shaped and in different sizes. Gabion baskets are
Formatted: Left
frequently used in highway and railway works. Especially, providing the filling material from Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

a quarry close to worksite is an economical alternative. Gabion basket reach a natural green
appearance as the plantation between the rocks spread along the basket.
Fig. 2.1.3(a) A Gabion basket
2.1.4 GABION MATTRESSES

Gabion Mattresses are generally used in the channel coating for preventing erosion. Gabion
height is shorter than the other types of measurements.
Formatted: Left

Fig. 2.1.4(a) Channel coating for preventing erosion with gabion mattress
2.1.5 GABION SACK

This type of gabions are usually used in hydraulic works in emergency situations and in a
practical way and they are formed quickly. Gabion sacks has a porous and flexible structure.
Fig. 2.1.5(a) Gabion Sack in Hydraulic Structures
2.1.6 GABION WIRE MESHSACK
Formatted: Left

Gabion wire mesh are used for keeping the possible fall of rocks and stones on the highway
and railway surfaces and for directing the material to toe area to keep stability of the slope close
to highway and railways. Gabion wire mesh reach a natural green appearance as the plantation
between the rocks spread along the wire mesh and used for anti-erosion to slope. Also a
combination of the use on geogrid reinforcing with gabion in the soil embankment provides
increasing strength of embankment soil to support the gabion face wall.
Fig. 2.1.6(a) Gabion wire mesh used in keeping the possible fall of rocks and stones
This type of gabions are usually used in hydraulic works in emergency situations and in a
practical way and they are formed quickly. Gabion sacks has a porous and flexible structure.
2.1.7 DECORATIVE GABION ELEMENTS

Gabion elements are also used indoor and outdoor decoration, garden design and landscaping.
Gabion elements provide a suitable environment for the growth of plant roots.
Formatted: Left

Fig. 2.1.7(a) Outdoor Design with Gabion Elements
2.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF GABIONS
2.2.1 DURABILITY
Gabions are made from either heavily coated zinc or GalfanR steel wire. The manufacturing
process allows great control over wire quality with the ability to draw the wire in-house from
selected steel rod and then apply the zinc or Galfan coating. The use of polymer coatings is
used to additionally coat the zinc or Galfan wire for Gabion and Mattress product that is to be
used in aggressive environments. Link Gabions and Mattresses have British Board of
Agreement Certification that demonstrates a design life of up to 120 years. When the polymer
coating is applied to the steel wire this whole process is again completed, ensuring the most
stringent International Standards are met for polymer quality and manufacturing excellence.
When polymer coatings are used the color typically is grey with special formulations that make
the coating resistant to ultra-violet (UV) light under Australian conditions. Specific colours can
be supplied dependent upon order size. Gabions and Mattresses allow vegetation to become
established throughout the structure, further enhancing its stability and aesthetics.
Formatted: Left
2.2.2 FLEXIBILITY Formatted: Font: Bold

Gabions are made from steel wire that is woven by double twisting into a unique hexagonal
mesh. The mesh maintains structural integrity under extreme conditions of use, and is not
susceptible to unravelling if any individual wires are compromised. The flexible nature of the
Gabion ensures that settlement issues associated with foundation ground movement can
generally be accommodated. This quite often means that expensive foundation treatment
associated with more rigid and brittle wall types can be avoided. Should post construction
settlement occur, retaining structures built with flexible Gabions will generally remain
serviceable due to the ability of the product to tolerate some deformation, unlike retaining
structures built from rigid and brittle concrete materials. Mattresses are often used as channel
linings or to protect the toe of Gabion walls from potential scour situations. The flexible nature
of Mattresses ensures they can deform sufficiently to the contour of the developed scour profile,
thus ensuring protection from long term undermining.
2.2.3 PERMEABILITY
The highly permeable nature of the rock infill used to fill Gabion and Mattresses ensures quick
dissipation of hydrostatic pressure that can build up behind such structures. The free draining
nature of these products overcomes many drainage issues and potential wall failures that may
be associated with traditional retaining structures or scour structures. The problem of
inadequate drainage behind retaining walls is often a source of major wall failure. The use of
Gabions and Mattresses helps to ensure that drainage is maintained, but like all retaining
structures, a careful assessment of drainage requirements should always be made by the
designer.
2.2.4 HYDRAULIC STABILITY

The rough surface of Gabions and Mattresses makes these products particularly effective in
dissipating and absorbing hydraulic energy. Additionally, when stone is restrained within
Gabions or Mattresses, the effective shear capacity of the stone is increased, for a given stone
size. This makes the use of smaller, less costly, more available rock, suitable in a wider range
of hydraulic applications than would normally be possible. Where structures are subject to
wave attack, such as in coastal environments, there is a significant reduction in wave run-up
when using Gabions and Mattresses due to their high surface shear characteristics. A careful Formatted: Left
assessment of the long term durability of the Gabion or Mattress solution must be made for Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
these applications. Formatted: Font: Bold


2.2.5 GABIONS AND MATTRESSES USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH
GEOTEXTILE FILTERS
In most instances Gabions and Mattresses are used in environments where groundwater and
surface water movements occur. In these situations the use of a suitable geotextile filter
between the Gabions and Mattresses and the soil to be protected should be considered
mandatory. The geotextile filter prevents the erosion of the protected soil through the large
rock voids in the Gabions and Mattresses, while at the same time allowing dissipation of pore
water pressures. Throughout this Design Booklet reference is made to the correct use of
geotextile filters with Gabions and Mattresses for a range of structural and hydraulic
applications.
Fig. 2.2.5(a) Typical Section of Gabion Box
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 3
Formatted: Left

CIVIL
ENGINEERING
USE OF GABIONS
3. CIVIL ENGINEERING USE OF GABIONS
The most common civil engineering use of gabions was refined and patented by
Gaetano Maccaferri in the late 1800's in Sacerno, Emilia Romagna and used to stabilize
shorelines, stream banks or slopes against erosion. Other uses include retaining walls, noise
barriers, and temporary flood walls, silt filtration from runoff, for small or
temporary/permanent dams, river training, or channel lining. They may be used to direct the
force of a flow of flood water around a vulnerable structure.
Formatted: Left
Gabions are also used as fish screens on small streams. Gabion stepped weirs are commonly Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
used for river training and flood control; the stepped design enhances the rate of energy Formatted: Font: Bold

dissipation in the channel, and it is particularly well suited to the construction of gabion stepped
weirs.
A gabion wall is a retaining wall made of stacked stone-filled gabions tied together with wire.
Gabion walls are usually battered (angled back towards the slope), or stepped back with the
slope, rather than stacked vertically.
Gabion baskets have some advantages over loose riprap because of their modularity and ability
to be stacked in various shapes. Gabions have advantages over more rigid structures, because
they can conform to subsidence, dissipate energy from flowing water and resist being washed
away, and they drain freely. Their strength and effectiveness may increase with time in some
cases, as silt and vegetation fill the interstitial voids and reinforce the structure. They are
sometimes used to prevent falling stones from a cut or cliff endangering traffic on a
thoroughfare.
The life expectancy of gabions depends on the lifespan of the wire, not on the contents of the
basket. The structure will fail when the wire fails. Galvanized steel wire is most common,
but PVC-coated and stainless steel wire are also used. PVC-coated galvanized gabions have
been estimated to survive for 60 years. Some gabion manufacturers guarantee a structural
consistency of 50 years.
In the United States, gabion use within streams first began with projects completed from 1957
to 1965 on North River, Virginia and Zealand River, New Hampshire. More than 150 grade-
control structures, bank revetments and channel deflectors were constructed on the two U.S.
Forest Service sites.
Eventually, a large portion of the in-stream structures failed due to undermining and lack of
structural integrity of the baskets. In particular, corrosion and abrasion of wires by bed load
movement compromised the structures, which then sagged and collapsed into the channels.
Other gabions were toppled into channels as trees grew and enlarged on top of gabion
revetments, leveraging them toward the river channels.
Gabions have also been used in building, as in the Dominus Winery in the Napa
Valley, California by architects Herzog & de Meuron, constructed between 1995 and 1997.
The exterior is formed by modular wire mesh gabions containing locally quarried stone; this
construction allows air movement through the building and creates an environment of moderate Formatted: Left
temperatures inside.

Fig. 3(a) Construction of Gabion Baskets at the Site
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 4
MATERIALS USED
FOR GABION
FILLING
Formatted: Left

4. MATERIALS USED FOR GABION FILLING
The design of gabion retaining walls is based on the mass of the contained stone or rock being
able to resist the disturbing forces due to soil and external loadings. The design does not
consider that the gabion mesh provides improvement to stability. The design code applicable
to gabions is BS 8002 - The Code of Conduct for Earth Retaining Structures. In the design of
the retaining structure, the principles are the same for both woven and welded mesh gabions.
Where walls are subject to possible settlement, woven mesh gabions have more flexibility and
therefore may be best suited in these situations. Where a high quality of appearance is needed,
welded gabions are superior providing that the correct selection of mesh wire combinations are
chosen. The selection of rock or stone fill is very important, as the performance of gabion
structures is dependent upon the mass. Although the mass is the criteria for design, other factors
to be considered are:-
4.1 GRADING OF FILL

Gabion fill is normally a graded fill of between 100 to 200mm in diameter with a nominal 6%
smaller or larger. The grading can be tightened to 80 to 150mm providing the control of the
grading is tight. Stones smaller than the mesh will not be contained by it. The grading is
important to ensure that voids within the unit are minimized otherwise settlements can occur.
It is substantially important because it helps to reduce small voids and consequently prevent
settlement. Gabion graded fill between 100 mm to 200 mm is normal to use with nominal 6
percent smaller or larger diameter.
4.2 ANGULARITY OF FILL

The more angular the fill, the better interlock and the less deformation of the face occurs. It is
so important the fill angularity that increases interlocking and decreases face deformation of Formatted: Left
the wall. Rounded filler (rounded stone): possess lesser interlocking compared to angular rocks. Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Therefore, a stronger mesh might be used to compensate for that. The different types of stones
having fill angularity are as follows:
ROUNDED STONE has little interlock and results in greater deformation of the face.
To overcome the deformation, a heavier mesh wire should be used. Welded mesh
gabions are manufactured from 3, 4, or 5mm wire diameters and Woven gabions from
a wire diameter of 2.7mm. Therefore for a rounded stone fill, welded wire mesh gabions
should be specified, 4mm for gabion 27 system and 5mm for standard gabion 39
system.
CRUSHED CONCRETE OR GRITSTONE, although angular, tend to become

rounded. They do have greater interlock than rounded stones and therefore 4mm welded
wire mesh should be specified
QUARRIED STONE which is normally angular, is the preferable fill as the interlock
is very good.
BLOCKY STONE OR FLAT STONE when machined filled can result in large voids
being present which can result in settlements. Care should be taken when machine
filling to minimize large voids.
Ideally, all gabions should be fair faced (hand packed on the exposed faces). Where the cost of
quarried rock fill is high, the gabions can be filled with 2 types of fill, a quarried rock or block
stone for the exposed face with a cheaper stone fill behind. To assist in placing of differing
fills, an additional cell can be incorporated normally set back 300mm from the face during
gabion manufacture to assist in the construction. Two types of filler materials could be used
for gabion wall in case of using costly filler. High cost filler at the face of the wall and low cost
behind it.
Gabions and gabion mattresses shall consist of rectangular wire mesh formed containers filled
with rock.
Formatted: Left

TWISTED-MESHNon-raveling, double twisted, hexagonal wire mesh consisting of two
wires twisted together in two 180-degree turns. Twisted-mesh, fasteners, and stiffeners shall
conform to the requirements of ASTM A975.
WELDED-MESHWelded mesh with a uniform square or rectangular pattern and a

resistance weld at each intersection. Welded-mesh and stiffeners shall conform to the
requirements of ASTM A974 with the exception that welded mesh may be delivered in
component form, either rolled or stacked, for assembly at the job site. Spiral binders are the
standard fastener for welded-mesh gabions and gabion mattresses. Spiral binders shall conform
to the requirements of ASTM A974. Alternate fasteners for use with welded-mesh gabions and
gabion mattresses, such as ring fasteners or lacing wire, shall be formed from wire meeting the
same quality and coating thickness requirements as specified for the gabions and gabion
mattresses. Ring fasteners shall be made of stainless steel. Standard fasteners and alternate
fasteners must provide the minimum strength per lineal foot that is specified in ASTM A974
for gabions and gabion mattresses.
Fig. 4.2(a) Filling Material of Gabion Structure
ROCK - Rock shall conform to the quality requirements in Material and for Riprap. At least
85 percent of the rock particles, by weight, shall be within the predominant rock size range.
Gabion basket or mattress height Predominant rock size (in) Minimum rock dimension (in)
Maximum rock dimension (in) 12-, 18-, or 36-inch basket 4 to 8 4 8 6-, 9-, or 12-inch mattress
Formatted: Left
3 to 6 3 6 At least 30 days before delivery to the site, the contractor shall submit in writing the
source from which the rock will be obtained, test data, and other information needed to Formatted: Font: Bold

document that the rock meets the requirements of this specification. The contractor shall
provide the engineer free access to the source for the purpose of obtaining samples for testing.
BEDDING OR FILTER MATERIALBedding or filter material, when specified, shall

meet the gradation shown on the plans, and the requirements of Material Specification 521,
Aggregates for Drain fill and Filters. Geotextile, when specified, shall conform to the
requirements.
CHAPTER 5
Formatted: Left

DESIGN VALUES
FOR SOILS
RETAINED IN
GABION
STRUCTURES
5. DESIGN VALUES FOR SOILS RETAINED IN GABION

STRUCTURES
Before undertaking a gabion wall design, the types of soil being retained and the foundation
soil type should be identified by a soil investigation survey to ascertain the correct parameters
to use in design. Formatted: Left

Gabion walls are designed with the drained soil parameters for the retained soils, but the un-
drained parameters can be considered for the computations for sliding (limitations on the
cohesion values that can be taken for design will apply).
The design parameters for stability calculations are as follows:-
GRANULAR MATERIALS: - soil friction angle and density
SILTY AND CLAYEY MATERIALS: - Plasticity index and density (correlations exist for
assessing the drained soil friction angle with respect to the plasticity index)
TYPICAL SOIL FRICTION VALUES
SOIL CLASSIFICATION PHI VALUE (DEGREES)

Loose Compact Dense
Sand and Gravel 29 34 41
Medium Sand 27 31 36
Fine Sand 25 27 31
Fine Sand Silty, 25 27 29
Sandy Silty
Chalk (Re-moulded) 30 to 34
(Intact) 32 to 37
Glacial Till 35 to 42
Oxford Clay (Peak strength) 28
(Residual strength) 13
Weald Clay (Peak strength) 22
(Residual strength) 9 to 15
Gault Clay (Peak strength) 22
(Residual strength) 26
London Clay (Residual strength) 10
Weathered Clay (Peak strength) 19 to 21 Formatted: Left
London Clay (Residual strength) 9 to 14

Fig. 5(a) Labelling of Soil Retained in Retaining Wall
CORRELATION OF PLASTICITY INDEX AND SOIL FRICTION

ANGLE:-
PLASTICITY INDEX % PHI VALUE (DEGREES)

15 30
30 25
50 20
80 15
Interpret linearly for intermediate values.
CORRELATION OF PLASTICITY INDEX AND CBR:-
SOIL TYPE PLASTICITY INDEX % CBR %

Heavy Clay >50 <2
Formatted: Left
40 to 49 2 Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
30 to 39 2 Formatted: Font: Bold

Silty Clay 20 to 29 3
Sandy Clay 10 to 19 4
Silt <10 1
Sand Poorly Graded Non Plastic
20
Sand Well Graded Non Plastic 40
Gravel Poorly Graded Non Plastic 40
Sandy Gravel Well Graded Non Plastic 60
TYPICAL DENSITIES OF SOILS
SOIL TYPE MOIST WEIGHT

LOOSE DENSE
KN/cum KN/cum
Gravels 16 18
Well Graded Sand 19 21
Course or Medium Sand 16.5 18.5
Fine or Silty Sand 17 19
Soft Clay 17
Firm Clay 18
Stiff Clay 19
Very Stiff Hard Clay 20
Stiff Hard Glacial Clay 21
The above soil information is a guide only and does not negate the need for a proper soil
investigation survey to be carried out.
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 6
Formatted: Left

DESIGN OF
GABION
STRUCTURES
6. DESIGN OF GABION STRUCUTRES
6.1 DESIGN METHODS FOR STABILITY OF GABION STRUCTURES
Design methods of analysis for determining the stability of gabion walls are based on The Code
of Practice BS 8002 which superseded CP2. The two methods considered are:-
Serviceability Limit State Design
Ultimate Limit State Design
Formatted: Left

Fig. 6.1(a) Analysis of Serviceability Limit State Design
In the original code of practice, CP2, the analysis was based on Ultimate Limit State, where
the structure had to meet certain factors of safety on sliding (1.5) and overturning (2.0). The
soil forces being determined on the peak soil conditions. BS 8002 recommends the
Serviceability Limit State design where the factors of safety achieved must be greater than
unity. The soil forces being determined on factored soil parameters.
At present, most design is still carried out on the Ultimate Limit State, but generally a
Serviceability Limit State Design would give a similar section. Gabion walls form typically a
trapezoidal format, formed of a number of courses with the width of each course reducing as
the wall height increases. The walls may be flush faced or stepped as required by design or
visual requirements, and are normally inclined at 6 degrees to the vertical in the case of standard
gabion 39 system and up to 10 degrees for the gabion 27 system.
To establish the initial cross section for evaluation, the base width considered is 0.7x the wall
height for standard gabion 39 system inclined at 6 degrees to the vertical and 0.55x the height Formatted: Left
for gabion 27 system at an inclination of 10 degrees. The wall height for evaluation should
allow for a minimum toe in of 0.3 to 0.5m dependent on soil type.

Based on a 3.0m high wall, the base widths would be:-
STANDARD GABIONS 0.7 x 3.0 = 2.1m (nearest standard unit width is 2m)
GABION 27 SYSTEM 0.55 x 3.0 = 1.65m (nearest standard unit width is 1.7m, a
design example is evaluated later)
Fig. 6.1(b) A Standard Gabion Box
The make up for the walls will then be:-
COURSE STANDARD GABION 39 SYSTEM GABION 27 SYSTEM

(Width x height) (Width x height)
4 ------- 1.7 x 1.0
3 2.0 x 1.0 1.4 x 0.7
2 1.5 x 1.0 1.0 x 0.7
1 1.0 x 1.0 0.7 x 0.7
Formatted: Left
Total Volume 4.5 cum 3.87cum Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Note: - Gabon 27 system at an inclination of 10 degrees from the vertical normally
provides a more economical section.
6.2 DESIGN OF GABION STRUCTURES
INITIAL DATA FOR THE DESIGN
1. Input data for the design of gabion structures shall contain the information needed to:
Analysis of the slope of the natural and artificial slopes, embankments, direction of
channel processes;
The possibility of determining the forces acting on the structure;
Develop constructive solutions to the projected facilities;
Calculations of the basic parameters of structures;
Development of technologies of construction and further exploitation.
2. Design of gabion structures is based on the results of previously conducted geotechnical
and hydrological investigations.
3. Depending on the complexity of the natural environment for the design of gabion structures,
the following materials:
Climatic characteristics of the area;

Geomorphology and topography;
Hydrological conditions;
Soil and drainage studies;
On local and imported from other regions of the building materials
BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF THE DESIGN OF GABION STRUCTURES
1. Basic requirements for the design of gabion structures for various purposes, and their
individual structures and foundations, as well as the main calculation of the load and must
be taken in accordance with statutory requirements presented in this standard, In the design
Formatted: Left
and construction should take into account the peculiarity of gabion structures - permeable Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
honeycomb type structure with a flexible three-dimensional mesh cage. Formatted: Font: Bold

2. The location, layout and type of gabion structures should be chosen according to their
functional purpose, the natural conditions of the area of construction works and the
requirements of this standard.
3. The design on the water bodies, and variable levels of underwater parts of the gabion
structures shall not occur following negative processes:
For water bodies (lakes, ponds, flooded quarries, reservoirs) - erosion of the
bottom of the base structure by the action of the reflected waves;
For waterways (rivers, streams, canals) - reconfiguration of the channel due to a
change of direction of flow of water.
4. Gabion structures used in the construction of river and marine hydraulic structures, used in
any climatic conditions at the design average flow velocity of water up to 5.5 m / s and
wave loads, determined by calculation.
5. When calculating the stability of natural slopes should be evaluated as the overall stability
of the slope, and the local stability of the individual parts of the slope.
6. In the calculations, gabion structures shall be taken into account the following features:
Porosity of gabions for manual installation of stone material 0.25-0.35;
The volume of filling the upper gabion stone material should be increased to 5%
above the estimated volume,
taking into account the possibility of partial self-packing material filling during construction
under the influence of vertical loads.
7. The average size of the stone material and height of the gabions to protect slopes from
erosion of the coast, in the absence of wind waves is taken depending on the speed of water
flow in accordance with the requirements, shown in the following Table.
Formatted: Left
Type of Gabion Gabion Height The Average Stone Size Limiting the Flow Rate Formatted: Font: Bold
(m) (mm) (m/s) Formatted: Font: Bold

MATTRESS 0.15-0.17 85 3.5
110 4.2
0.23-0.25 85 3.6
120 4.5
0.30 100 4.2
125 5.0
GABION BOX 0.5-1.0 150 5.8
190 6.4
8. In terms of wave loads the average size (weight) of rock material and height of the gabion
determined by calculation. At the stage of study on the average size (weight) of rock
material is determined by the maximum wave height, laying the slope and shall meet the
requirements shown in following Table.
HEIGHT OF THE AVERAGE LAYING THE SLOPE OF THE

GABION STONE SIZE FOUNDATION
MATTRESS (m) (mm) 1:1.5 1:2.0 1:3.0
THE MAXIMUM WAVE HEIGHT (m)
0.15-0.17 85 0.4 0.75 1.2

0.23-0.25 120 0.6 0.9 1.4
0.3 150 0.7 1.2 1.8

0.5 250 0.9 1.4 2.0
9. The height of gabion structures exceed 0.5-1.0 m estimated water level of the water body
in the flood period, taking into account wind and ship waves.
10. The size of the cell gabion mesh products selected in accordance with the average size of
the stone.
11. Diameter of wire mesh is chosen based on calculations of stress perceived by the facility. Formatted: Left

12. At the construction site of gabion structures, gabion structures between a connecting
galvanized wires knitting, wire with a flow rate for binding gabion 5% of the total weight
of wire containers.
13. The design of gabion structures is allowed to change the shape and dimensions of gabion
mesh products, they must also be provided with the strength and stiffness of joints for.
14. The design of gabion structures with geotextiles, in the calculation of the coefficient of
friction decreases in the contact zone of the wall with a ground base and backfill of 5-10%.
15. To gabion structures used in the design of structures of high degree of responsibility, it is
necessary to use solid stone materials of igneous rocks (basalt, granite, diabase, diorite),
as well as metamorphic rocks, the characteristics of strength and frost resistance is not
lower than in igneous rocks.
16. To ensure the protection of the above-water zone of bioengineering gabion structures with
stepped front face, allowed a partial filling of the upper part of the carrier is not box-box-
like gabions or gabions with reinforcing panels 20cm layer of topsoil. Gabion structures,
made with the use of mattress products recommended to close the 20cm layer of topsoil.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt,

Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
1 Vegetable soil; Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt,
Font color: Text 1
2 Geotextile;
3 Stone material Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
Formatted: Left
Fig. 6.2(a) Example of Gabion Box-Like Structure Topsoil Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

1 Vegetable soil; Formatted: Font: (Default) Times New Roman, 12 pt,
Font color: Text 1
2 Gabion mattress
design
Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
Fig. 6.2(b) Example of closing the mattress, gabion structures topsoil Font color: Text 1
Font color: Text 1
6.3 CHECKS ON DESIGN OF GABIONS
Vertical load (Weight of unit length (1m)) = wall cross section x gabion fill
density equation (1)
The lateral earth pressure is computed according to coulomb equation:
Where:
Pa: Total active force of triangular pressure distribution acting on the wall Formatted: Left

H: Height of the wall
Ka: Coefficient of active soil pressure, which can be obtained from the following equation:
The co-efficient of active earth pressure is given by equation:
The lateral earth pressure is computed according to coulomb equation:
Where:
Pa: Total active force of triangular pressure distribution acting on the wall
H: Height of the wall
Ka: Coefficient of active soil pressure, which can be obtained from the following equation:
Where:
Total active force (Pa) is inclined to the back face of the wall. Horizontal component is driving
force which can be found using the equation:
Formatted: Left

Fig.ure 4: 6.3(a) Forces acting on Gabion Wall
Formatted: Left
Fig. 6.3(b) Stepped face Gabion Wall Fig. 6.3(c) Smoothed face Gabion Wall

SLIDING RESISTANCE CHECK
Frictional resistance at the base of the wall resist against active earth pressure which tends to
slide the wall. Fictional resistance can be obtained from the following equation:
Fig.6.3(d) Check for Sliding Resistance of Retaining Wall
Where:
OVERTURNING MOMENT CHECK

Overturning is a type of failure that might happen as a result of active earth pressure force.
Therefore, this should be prevented by resistant moment against overturning that is produced
Formatted: Left

by the weight of the wall and other forces. Principle of static is used to calculate resistant
moment (Mr) by taking moment about the toe of the wall.
Fig. 6.3(e) Overturning Moment Check
Where:
Mr: Resistance moment
Sum (W x d): Sum of vertical forces (W) multiply by their distances (d) to the toe
The resistance moment is calculated from the self-weight of the wall for the case where only
the vertical forces are encountered and equation 6 will be:
Equation (7)
Where:
: Self weight of gabion wall which vertically goes through the center of its cross
sectional area
: Distance from vertical forces to the wall toe. It can be achieved from taking moment Formatted: Left
about toe divided by total area:

The overturning moment (Mo) is obtained from active earth pressure which is perpendicular
to the slope of back face and acts at H/3 from the base. In the presence of surcharge H/3 cannot
be employed. The following equation is used to calculate distance from the base to the active
earth pressure.
So the overturning check is expressed as:
Safety factor (SFs) against overturning is (2)

Look at Figure 5 & Figure 6 to see different angles, forces and their distances on a typical
gabion wall.
CHECK BEARING PRESSURE:

Compute eccentricity (e) of vertical force to determine whether resultant force is located within
middle third of the base (B) or not:
Resultant force location will be within middle third if
The maximum pressure under the base is:
Formatted: Left

Fig. 6.3(f) Check for Bearing Capacity of Soil
6.4 METHODS OF COMPUTING SOIL FORCES
Once the initial section has been determined, stability checks can be carried out. The provision
for any superimposed surcharge loadings to the retained soil both in the construction stage and
the permanent condition must be accounted for. Normally, a typical construction loading is
taken as 10kN/sqm for retained soils with nominal inclinations. If unusual construction plant
is to be used in the vicinity of the wall, then the superimposed loading should be increased
accordingly.
Formatted: Left
Where the retaining wall height is large or is built within a slope or in clayey material, it may
be necessary to carry out an overall slope stability check in case a circular failure plane exists Formatted: Font: Bold
which passes beneath the structure in the soil strata. Formatted: Font: Bold

Two methods of computing the soil forces on the retaining wall can be used:-
COULOMBS ANALYSIS:-
This is a mathematical analysis based on considering a coefficient of active thrust for the soil.
The method considers the soil parameters and the friction developed at the back of the wall.
The analysis is limited to retained soil profiles which have a single grade, but more complex
slopes can be considered by rationalizing the complex surface to a single grade and applying a
continuous surcharge to approximate the profile. It can only consider a continuous single
surcharge, but methods are available to deal with line or point loadings on the retained soil.
Fig. 6.4(a) Coulomb Analysis
WEDGE ANALYSIS:-
This is a graphical solution that considers the forces acting on the soil wedge behind the wall Formatted: Left
to maintain it in equilibrium. The method considers various failure planes. For each plane, a Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
force vector diagram is plotted and the maximum thrust can be determined from the locus of Formatted: Font: Bold

the active thrust vector on the diagram. This method is the preferred method of analysis as it
can accommodate variations in the profile of the retained ground along with multiple surcharge
loading conditions. However the analysis can be lengthy as it has to be carried out at each
course and therefore is best managed by computer programs.
The following design method is based on Coulombs Analysis. Being mathematical it is

relatively easy to carry out design.
DATA REQUIRED FOR DESIGN
GEOMETRY: - Slope wall height hm

Slope angle of the retained soil degrees
SOIL PARAMETERS Soil friction angle degrees
Density kN/cum
LOADINGS Surcharge po kN/sqm
ALLOWABLE BEARING PRESSURE
6.5 VARIATIONS IN DESIGN

There are various special designs of gabions to meet particular functional requirements and
some special terms for particular forms have come into use. For example
BASTION: a gabion lined internally with a membrane, typically of

nonwoven geotextile to permit use of a granular soil fill, instead of rock.
MATTRESS: a form of gabion with relatively small height relative to the lateral
dimensions; commonly very wide. For protecting surfaces from wave erosion and
similar attack, rather than building or supporting high structures.
TRAPION: a form of gabion with a trapezoidal cross section, designed for stacking
to give a face that is sloping rather than stepped. The term is in wide usage, but in
contexts related to gabions at least, appears to be a trademark registered by Beta
Formatted: Left
fence Limited. Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Fig. 6.5(a) Trapion Gabion
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 7
CONSTRUCTION
STEPS OF
GABIONS
Formatted: Left

7. CONSTRUCTION STEPS OF GABIONS
A gabion is a cage, cylinder, or box filled with rocks, concrete, or sometimes sand and soil for
use in civil engineering, road building, military applications and landscaping. The following
requirements shall be met when constructing with gabions:
a. Gabion baskets shall be wired together to manufacturers specifications.
b. The bed on which gabion cages are to be laid before they are filled with rock shall be
so leveled as to present an even surface at the depth shown on the drawings or as
directed.
c. The lower gabion basket will be excavated into the channel bottom a minimum of 1/3
the height of the gabion.
d. The gabion will be stretched to remove any kinks and to gain a straight alignment and
carefully filled with rock that is larger than the wire openings (smaller stone may be
used in the interior of the basket); ensuring that a compact mass of rock with minimal
void spaces is installed within the basket.
e. The baskets shall be filled in layers and in stages so that the depth of stone placed in
any cell does not exceed the depth of the stone in an adjacent cell by more than 30
centimeters.
f. Stacked gabion baskets used for bank stability shall be tilted towards the soil they are
protecting by a minimum of 6 degrees from vertical.
Formatted: Left
g. Stones placed against the outside mesh of the basket must be larger than the basket Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic
openings. Formatted: Font: Bold


h. Internal connecting cross-tie wires shall be placed in each gabion.
Formatted: Left

A
i. Long the exposed faces, rock shall be placed by hand to ensure a uniform and neat
appearance.
j. Each basket shall be full prior to closing and fastening of basket lids. The uppermost
layer of rock shall completely fill the gabion basket and shall be uniformly leveled to
the top edges of the basket so that the lid will bear on the rock when it is secured. Lids
shall be stretched tight over the rock filling using only approved lid closing tools as
necessary. The use of crowbars or other single point leverage bars for lid closing is
prohibited as they may damage the baskets. The lid shall be stretched until it meets
the perimeter edges of the front and end panels. The gabion lid shall then be secured
to the sides, ends, and diaphragms per manufacturers specifications.
k. Gabions shall be placed to 30 cm above average bank height. Baskets placed on top
of each other shall be offset horizontally like a brick wall. Baskets will be stepped
vertically so as not to form a sheer face. Average offset shall be 1/3 depth of gabion.
l. Gabion walls placed along stream banks must be keyed in to the bank on both
upstream and downstream ends. Length for the keys (tiebacks or key-ins) on the end
of a gabion wall shall be at least equal to the bank height plus the anticipated scour
depth.
m. Extend gabion walls 5 m beyond point of visible erosion.
n. Any damage to the wire or coatings during assembly, placement and filling shall be
repaired promptly in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or
Formatted: Left
replaced with undamaged gabion baskets.

n.
The various construction steps of gabion are as follows:
a) PREPARATION OF THE FORMATION
Fig. 7(a)
b) LAYING OUT MESH BOX
Formatted: Left

Fig. 7(b)
c) LACING TOGETHER
Fig. 7(c)
d) FILLING
Formatted: Left

Fig. 7(d)
e) BRACING
Formatted: Left
Fig. 7(e)

f) CLOSING LIDS
Fig. 7(f)
CHAPTER 8
Formatted: Left

ADVANTAGES
AND
DISADVANTAGES
OF GABIONS
8.1 ADVANTAGES OF GABIONS
The construction materials for gabion walls are easy to transport to sites, easy to unload and
place. The rock fill comes in various sizes and colors to accommodate the volume and design
of each wall, making them customized for each application. The gabions can be placed to
follow a grade along a wall, form the banks of stream beds and reinforce dunes in coastal areas.
The tops of gabion walls can taper to follow any change in landscape elevation. Speed of
construction remains fast. Formatted: Left

8.1.1 ENDURANCE
Gabion walls resist breakage and separation, due to the flexibility of their wire mesh
construction. They can endure repeated wave pounding and stream flow without disintegration.
The gravel and rocks used in gabion construction are natural to the environment and can endure
years of wear through water erosion. The galvanized wire used in the mesh resists corrosion
and rust.
Fig. 8.1.1(a) Pipeline under Gabions

8.1.2 APPLICATION
Gabion walls can be used in the formation of pond and damn walls, as well as cladding for
building structures. Cement caps can be placed on top of gabion walls, similar to the way
sidewalks cap the top of wall structures. Gabions can be used to fashion interconnected beds
for slope stabilization, riverbanks and drainage channels. They provide protection against hill
and mud slides, where the topsoil is loose and has no root foundation. Gabion walls provide
Formatted: Left
protection against storm surge and wave erosion on beaches and tidal berms.

Fig. 8.1.2(a) Cement Caps on top of Gabion Wall Formatted: Font: 12 pt, Not Bold
Formatted: Centered
8.1.3 DRAINAGE
Due to the pebble and gravel construction of gabion walls, the permeability remains good,
allowing sufficient natural drainage of runoff, while decreasing the water velocity by breaking
it up and dispersing the pressure over a wide area.
8.1.4 FLEXIBILITY
Subjected to alternating forces of tension and compression, the inherent flexibility of a Gabion
structure enables it to deform rather than break. This prevents loss of structural efficiency.
Deforming in response to subsidence of foundation or internal stress is a functional feature,
Formatted: Left
and rather than being a fault is in fact, a benefit.
8.1.5 STRENGTH

Since Gabion are bound together as a monolithic unit, the wire mesh is extremely strong under
tension. The wire mesh shell is not simply a container for the stone filling, but a reinforcement
of the entire structure. Additional strength is achieved by the use of vertical diaphragms. These
diaphragms are affixed to the base of the gabions to restrict internal movement of the stone
filling and provide further reinforcement. Gabion efficiency, rather than decreasing with age,
actually increases. During early periods of use, silt and vegetation will collect within the rock
filling to form a naturally permanent structure, enhancing the environment.
8.1.6 PERMEABILITY
Interstitial spaces in the stone fill within the baskets provide a great degree of permeability
throughout the structure eliminating the need for a drainage system and preventing buildup of
hydrostatic pressure which will displace and crack concrete structures. In river works, pressure
and counter pressure on the banks due to variations in water depth between flood and low water
are therefore also eliminated.
8.1.7 ECONOMY
Wire mesh gabions are less expensive than most construction materials. Graded stone fill is
usually locally available. Waste materials such as crushed concrete may be specified in place
of stone.
Construction costs are reduced; unskilled laborers can easily learn to erect Modular Gabion
Systems, fill them and close them properly. Many gabion structures may be built without any
mechanical equipment. Pilings, underwater drainage systems and excavations are unnecessary.
There's no need to drain the site or to construct a cofferdam for underwater installation. The
first layer of gabions can be laid in water or in mud.
Upon completion, a gabion structure will take its full load immediately - without the waiting
periods of up to one month normally associated with concrete structures. Gabion structures are
virtually maintenance free.
8.2 DISADVANTAGES OF GABIONS Formatted: Left


There are also a number of disadvantages associated with gabion walls that you need to be
aware of:
In some cases, the aesthetic impression of the walls is minimal (as the wire basket can be seen
and algae may be present). High velocity water could cause the gabion to be damaged through
the impact of a large or heavy object.
It is important to keep in mind that the advantages and disadvantages will also depend on the
condition of the site, the availability of materials and equipment, and the availability of
manpower.
Fig. 8.2(a) A House made of Gabion Structures
8.2.1 SITE CONDITION
If the ground is relatively soft, you will need to create a concrete or stone base for the baskets
to sit on top of (lest they sink into the mud). This can add significant time and cost. If the
ground is relatively hard, you will be able to build the wall immediately.
Formatted: Left
8.2.2 AVAILABILITY OF MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic


If the supplier has baskets and rock in stock, you will be able to erect the gabions as soon as
you get everything home. If they have to order materials in, you will have to wait until
theyre delivered. Equipment may also be required.
8.2.3 AVAILABILITY OF MANPOWER
Filling the baskets with rock is something that is done by hand, which can be time consuming
(if you have a lot of baskets to fill) and can lead to injury if youre not careful. If you have
helpers, you will get the project done faster.
8.2.4 AESTHETICS
Gabion structures have suffered a reputation for being unsightly and unnatural in river, pond
and beach settings. The front-facing walls appear bland and mechanical in design, rather than
form natural-looking rock barriers. Large gabion walls constructed on tourist beaches serve as
a distraction, where very thick and long walls must be used to protect large beach areas.
8.2.5 MAINTENANCE
If the rocks shift or become worn down inside the metal baskets as a result of heavy water and
wave activity, the entire wall must be disassembled to reach the damaged area. For very tall
gabion stacks, any damage to the lower areas requires the removal of the upper wall elevations,
which can be costly and time-consuming.
8.2.6 SPACE
It takes up a lot of space on a beach, because to be effective you may need to be more than one.
This can make the beach a less desirable place to bathe and could also make it look more
crowded.
8.2.7 NOT EASILY REPLACEABLE

If the cage becomes too rusted or the rocks too worn, you must remove the entire gabion. If Formatted: Left
the cage that needs replacing is the one at the bottom of a pile, you have to remove all of
them, which can make repairs a lengthy and expensive process.

8.2.8 DETERIORATION
Both the cage and its contents will deteriorate over time, which means that you will need to
replace them, leading to more expense and greater difficulty locating the resources.
8.2.9 LIMITED USE

The effectiveness is limited to areas of small drainage areas and intermittent water flow,
according to the Environmental Building Design and Construction Portal.
Fig. 8.2.9(a) Galvanized Gabion Sheet
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 9
APPLICATIONS OF
GABIONS
Formatted: Left

9. APPLICATIONS OF GABIONS
Gabion structures can be built with speed and economy in all circumstances and are particularly
suitable for landslide control in mountainous countries and in areas with persistently bad
ground conditions. Where ground is liable to subside, the capacity of gabions to deform makes
them preferable to a concrete wall which would crack and collapse. In addition to the distinct
structural advantages over concrete and other non-porous gravity wall structures, the potential
to vegetate a standard gabion basket or wire faced wall offers unique landscaping potential as
well.
9.1 CHANNEL LININGS
Gabions are the frequent choice for channel design solutions because they provide for
economical construction and ensure functional and structural integrity. Unlike many "hard
armor" solutions which actually contribute to greater run-off volumes by prohibiting water
infiltration, gabions are permeable. Moreover, gabions do not prohibit the growth of vegetation
but in fact, stabilize soil giving plants the opportunity to take root and grow. Gabions will
revegetate spontaneously and once growth takes hold, these channels will provide for the
aesthetic and habitat needs of both humans and wildlife. Revegetated channels are further
shown to reduce noise levels, provide for significant water filtering and are less likely to be an
attractive nuisance.
Channels are commonly trapezoidal or rectangular. Trapezoidal channels have sloped sides and
are formed by excavation. Gabion mattresses are placed on sloped sides and channel bottom
for protection against erosion. Rectangular channels have vertical or near vertical sides which
are formed with gabions; the channel bottom may be fully or partially protected with gabion
mattresses depending upon the resistance of in situ material to erosion or scour.
Formatted: Left

Fig. 9.1(a) Trapezoidal Channel Lining
9.2 HEADWALLS
Headwalls or wing walls improve the flow of water into and out of conduits, provide anchoring
support for the pipe and prevent dislodging under excessive pressures, control erosion and
scour resulting from high water velocities and turbulences and to prevent adjacent soil from
sloughing into the waterway opening. Headwalls are necessitated by limited space and poor
soil conditions.
The inherent flexibility and porous nature of gabions address the design concerns of headwalls
which must properly dissipate the energy of water flow, withstand or relieve soil and
hydrostatic pressures, and in areas prone to such seasonal changes, withstand the effects of
frost action acting upon the soil, and preclude detrimental heave or lateral displacement
resulting from frost action. Formatted: Left

Fig. 9.2(a) Headwall or Endwall
9.3 CULVERT OUTLETS
The outlets of pipes and lined channels are points of critical erosion potential. The velocity of
water conveyed through pipes or conduits often exceeds the capacity of the receiving basin or
channel to resist erosion.
To prevent scour at these sites, protect the outlet structure and minimize the potential for
downstream erosion, a flow transition structure is needed to absorb the initial impact of flow
and reduce the speed of the flow to a non-erosive velocity. Aprons constructed from gabion
mattresses placed at these outlets will absorb energy to calm turbulence and slow the velocity
of the discharged flow.
Formatted: Left

9.4 DROP STRUCTURES OR WEIRS
Drop structures and weirs are small dams placed across a waterway to provide for changes in
gradient, slow water velocities and reduce erosion by. Water flow is directed through the weir
into a stilling basin where the energy of the flow is dissipated.
Critical factors in the success of such structures are the proper engineering of the drop structure
itself to withstand hydraulic pressure and to prevent outflanking. Many weir structures will
require a stilling basin.
Fig. 9.4(a) Malta River Gabion Weir
Structures may vary from low gabion walls to very large earth dams lined with mattresses.
They are classified according to the shape of the downstream face at the center of the flow.
The most common weirs are vertical structures. The downstream face of a vertical weir is flush.
These structures are often used on small streams, usually in a system of weirs. High vertical
weirs require a stilling basin which may be created by constructing a scour apron and counter
weir from gabion mattresses.
Formatted: Left

Stepped weirs differ slightly from vertical weirs. The addition of stepped downstream faces
provides for some energy to dissipation at each level. Stepped weirs are appropriate for small
structures in waters without heavy sediment loads. Stepped structures are often constructed
with some degree of batter.
Where larger structures are required or bearing capacity of soils is limited, sloped weirs are
most appropriate. Sloped weirs are ramped on both the upstream and downstream faces. As
with vertical structures, sloped weirs may require a stilling basin.
9.5 GRAVITY WALLS
Among the most common gabion structures, gravity wall rely on their significant mass and
geometry to retain soil. Inherently flexible and porous, gabions are well mechanically suited to
gravity walls and require no additional drainage. Gravity walls are usually designed with a 6
degree batter from vertical, with either a stepped front face or stepped back face.
Gravity walls constructed from gabions will revegetate over time but may be selectively
planted with desired species. Once established, the vegetation will add even greater strength to
the structure. Alternatively, Modular Gabion Systems gabions may be faced with our exclusive
Ragazzo Blocks.
Formatted: Left
Fig. 9.5(a) Terra Aqua Gabion Gravity Wall Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Modular Gabion Systems Gabions are an economical and attractive alternative to walls
constructed from concrete or articulated block. Gravity walls are ideally suited to construction
from roll-stock. This purchase option offers substantial savings in material costs and labor,
incurs less freight and permits construction of continuous lifts up to 300-feet in length. Baskets
may be filled with locally available graded stone, or for even greater economy, crushed
concrete.
9.6 MSE WALLS

Mechanically Stabilized Earth Walls, consist of a facing element combined with horizontal
soil reinforcement to retain backfilled and compacted soil. Modular Gabion Systems may be
utilized in the construction of MSE walls faced with gabion baskets or wire mesh panels with
Anchor Mesh Panels providing horizontal soil reinforcement. (To learn more, see Wire Faced
Walls.)
MSE Walls may be constructed as a cost-effective alternative to gravity wall structures and are
ideal where steeper slopes (batter of 70 degrees or greater) are desirable as is often the case for
bridge abutments and wing-walls.
9.7 LANDSCAPING AND ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
Modular Gabion Systems are well-suited to landscape architecture: they combine function with
a fresh, pleasing, geometric aesthetic.
Formatted: Left
Fig. 9.7(a) Outdoor Gabion Wall Formatted: Font: Bold


Landscapers are only limited by their own imaginations. Retaining walls, terraces, planters,
benches, walls and other enclosures can be easily constructed from gabions and often at less
cost than more traditional materials.
Slate stones stacked inside a gabion create a very high-end design but topping a standard stone-
filled basket with slab or wooden slats is an economical solution for lovely and unusual garden
seating.
9.8 ROCKFALL MITIGATION NETTING
Modular Gabion Systems' welded wire mesh provides essential protection where the
continuous erosion of slopes and rock faces where loose debris and falling rock may create a
risk to lives and property.
The mesh does not secure loose debris in place but rather retains it between the slope and the
mesh, allowing it roll to the foot of the slope without risk of injury or damage.
Rock fall netting is unrolled or "draped," over the slope and secured with anchor bolts. Over
time, rocks and debris will fall to the foot of the slope behind the steel mesh drapery. Rocks
can then be collected in a trench of suitable dimensions, at the foot of the slope.
If desired, the mesh can be secured both at the top of the slope and at the foot of the slope with
high strength cables. In this instance it is good practice to allow the lower cable to be loosened,
in order that the collected debris can be removed safely.
9.9 REVETMENTS
Revetments protect banks by absorbing energy of incoming waves or heavy water flows and
are usually built to preserve the existing uses of a shoreline and slope. Like seawalls,
revetments provide protection for the land behind them; revetments however do not
significantly interfere with littoral drift, nor redirect wave energy. Formatted: Left

Gabions mattresses are an ideal choice for revetments. Rock fill provides sufficient resistance
to water's flow to dissipate wave energy while the porous nature of gabion mattresses allows
for the relief of groundwater pressure in the protected bank. No structural modifications are
required to provide adequate drainage. The monolithic nature of gabion structures provides for
structural integrity to prevent them from being dislodged by the battering wave action and
subsequently washed away in severe storm events.
Fig. 9.9(a) Revetments in Stone Block Structure
Design considerations for revetments include providing appropriate height, width and toe
protection. Revetments should high enough to prevent overtopping by waves. Sides should be
protected from flank erosion by tiebacks or returns. It may be desirable to provide a scour apron
at the toe.
9.10 ENERGY DISSIPATERS
The pervious structure of Gabions gives two advantages over impervious structures. First,
when pounded by heavy masses of water, the impact, instead of being taken instantaneously,
is gradually absorbed. Again, flexibility offers distinct advantages in coastal defense or
defenses. Huge sea walls can be constructed with high speed using these gabions.
Formatted: Left

9.11 FLEXIBLE APRONS
Flexible Aprons Designed to protect super-structures against the undermining action of river
or sea water, Gabion aprons will closely follow the changing contours of the bed as scouring
progresses, until eventually the erosion is completely sealed off.
9.12 DIKES AND GROINS

These structures are built to protect a particular area from erosion as well as to silt up the
previously eroded areas. The dykes are also used for the protecting the harbors against the
Built across the front of an eroded area will collect silt left behind by floodwaters. The silt
gradually builds up until the required reclamation is met without any financial outlay.
Formatted: Left
Fig. 9.12(a) Morley Dikes9.13 WEIRS Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic

Gabion weirs, check dams are constructed across watercourses as grade control structures,
sediment collectors, as well as to form water reservoirs. Gabion weirs are normally provided
with a Gabion scour protection apron both on their downstream side and at the upstream
zone.
9.13 SOIL CONSERVATION

Gabion are applied here as
a. terracing on steep slopes to retain the top soil,

b. linings for the beds and sides of water courses,
c. check dams for grade reducing weirs in steeply sloping gullies or valleys.
9.14 NAVIGATION CHANNELS AND SHIP DOCKING AREAS

Gabion can be used for construction of structures for maintaining the geometry of the
Navigational Channel. These products can also be used for construction of retaining walls of
ship decking areas.
9.15 PROTECTION OF SCOUR AROUND BRIDGE PIERS AND

STRUCTURE
The Gabions can be used to protect scouring around the bridge piers and other important
structures.
Formatted: Left

Fig.9.15(a) Scour Protection by Gabions
9.16 MILITARY USE OF GABIONS
The interior of Fort Stedman in 1865, showing a parapet constructed with gabions to protect
gun positions. Early gabions were round cages with open tops and bottoms, made
from wickerwork and filled with earth for use as military fortifications. These early military
gabions were most often used to protect sappers and siege artillery gunners. The wickerwork
cylinders were light and could be carried relatively conveniently in the ammunition train,
particularly if they were made in several diameters to fit one inside another. At the site of use
in the field, they could be stood on end, staked in position, and filled with soil to form an
effective wall around the gun, or rapidly construct a bulletproof parapet along a sap. During
the Crimean War, local shortages of brushwood led to use of scrap hoop-iron from hay bales
in its stead; this in turn led to purpose-built sheet-iron gabions.
Today, gabions are often used to protect forward operating bases (FOBs) against explosive,
Formatted: Left
fragmentary, indirect fires such as mortar or artillery fire. Examples of areas within a FOB that
make extensive use of gabions are sleeping quarters, mess halls, or any place where there would Formatted: Font: Bold

be a large concentration of unprotected soldiers. Gabions are also used for aircraft revetments,
blast walls, and similar structures.
Fig. 9.16(a) The Interior of Fort Stedman
CHAPTER 10 Formatted: Left


CASE STUDIES
EXAMPLE
10. CASE STUDIES EXAMPLE
There are many places in India as well as in world where Gabion Structures are used. The
following examples at various places in India shows the applications of Gabion Structures,
which are as follows:
a) GABION RETAINING WALL FOR EMBANKMENT, D.P.ROAD

NASHIK, MAHARASHTRA INDIA
Formatted: Left

CHAPTER 11
Formatted: Left

BIBLIOGRAPHY
11. BIBLIOGARPHY
11.1 SEARCH ENGINES
Formatted: Left
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabion#References

http://civilblog.org/2015/12/20/gabions-definition-advantages-uses-examples/
http://www.gabionboxsupplier.com/installation/installation-of-gabion-
structures.html
https://theconstructor.org/structures/gabion-wall-design-applications-
materials/13445/
11.2 REFERENCE BOOKS
Basics of Gabion Wall Design by Huge Brooks
Gabion Design Manual
Engineering Properties of Gabion Structures by GL Yang
Formatted: Left

Gabion New

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Gabion New

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Gabion New

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CHAPTER 1

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 1

1.1 MEANING OF GABION

Fig. 1.1(a) Gabion Structure

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 2

1.3 GABIONS IN PRESENT WORLD

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 3

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 4

1.5 FEATURES OF GABIONS

Specific features include:

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 5

Fig. 1.5(a) Permeability of Gabion BasketsElements

1.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLINESS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 6

1.5.4 COST EFFECTIVE, EASY TO BUILD

Fig. 1.5.4(a) Gabion Structures along Road-side Formatted: Font: Bold

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 7

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 8

2.1 TYPES OF GABIONS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 9

2.1.1 WELDED MESH GABIONS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 10

2.1.2 WOVEN MESH GABIONS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 11

2.1.3 GABION BASKETS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 12

Fig. 2.1.3(a) A Gabion basket

2.1.4 GABION MATTRESSES

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 13

2.1.5 GABION SACK

Fig. 2.1.5(a) Gabion Sack in Hydraulic Structures

2.1.6 GABION WIRE MESHSACK

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 14

2.1.7 DECORATIVE GABION ELEMENTS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 15

2.2 CHARACTERISTICS OF GABIONS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 16

2.2.4 HYDRAULIC STABILITY

these applications. Formatted: Font: Bold

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 17

Fig. 2.2.5(a) Typical Section of Gabion Box

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 18

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 19

3. CIVIL ENGINEERING USE OF GABIONS

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 20

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 21

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 22

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 23

4.1 GRADING OF FILL

4.2 ANGULARITY OF FILL

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 24

CRUSHED CONCRETE OR GRITSTONE, although angular, tend to become

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 25

WELDED-MESHWelded mesh with a uniform square or rectangular pattern and a

Fig. 4.2(a) Filling Material of Gabion Structure

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 26

BEDDING OR FILTER MATERIALBedding or filter material, when specified, shall

GCET JAMMU GABION STRUCTURES Page | 27